COVID-19 TRAVEL FAQs

COVID testing, vaccine and quarantine policies are based on where you are traveling to and from and are still changing. Currently, most European countries have eliminated travel restrictions relating to COVID-19. Below are current basic policies:

We will ask all travelers to complete a personal travel declaration before joining the trip. This may change depending on your destination(s):

– Those fully vaccinated must carry proof of the full COVID-19 vaccination (authentic white CDC card). Some countries have mandatory vaccine requirements that include booster shots.

Our travelers’ wellbeing is always a top priority, and to deliver a seamless travel experience, we highly recommend that all travelers booked with AESU be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with us (see www.cdc.gov for guidelines including booster). Regardless of status, travelers must comply with vaccine/booster requirements by airlines and the countries they visit. No refunds are given if traveler cannot complete any portion of the trip due to failure to meet them. This policy is subject to change at any time, without notice.

– Some countries may require a negative result PCR test or antigen test if not fully vaccinated: A test result must be in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy)

– Vaccination proof: an authentic COVID-19 vaccination certificate (electronic and original paper) showing date of the vaccination(s). We recommend that you take a smart phone picture of any paper vaccination certificates in case of loss of the original.

Any pre-travel testing that is required is the responsibility of the traveler. These requirements will be in accordance with airline policies and the entry requirements of the destination you are traveling to.

During the tour, your Tour Director will assist with any mandatory testing and this will be done with as little impact as possible to your travel experience. This testing will be at the expense of the traveler. Any testing required post travel will again be the responsibility of the traveler.

Currently, if fully vaccinated, no enroute testing is required.  You no longer need to get a COVID-19 viral test before you travel by air back into the United States.  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html

AESU Tour Directors and local support staff are there to help seek medical attention and facilitate with any testing, if necessary. They will follow local health authority guidelines and any requirements currently in place on a case-by-case basis. Every traveler’s health is a priority. You must obtain travel insurance to cover you for unexpected events such as an accident or illness during your tour, including COVID-19).

AESU will assist with arrangements if tests are required to move between countries while on multi-country trips (currently none required). Tests are becoming faster and cheaper, so this will be much easier if still required in the future. Your Tour Director will keep you informed of any policies in place.

If you test positive for COVID-19 prior to flying home, you will need to quarantine in that country for the required number of days as stipulated by the local government and follow their protocol. Your Tour Director and AESU’s support staff will assist you in making any necessary arrangements. Any costs incurred for having to quarantine will be your and/or your insurance provider’s responsibility. Purchasing the proper travel insurance prior to departure is very important. Make certain you have the appropriate level of coverage including Tour Interruption; (to cover the cost of your tour, including air); Tour Delay; Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation; Medical Expenses from Illness (covering individual or pandemic event); etc.

Extra cleanliness is key with all of our suppliers and we will continue to follow all local government guidelines. All local suppliers including hotels, restaurants, transportation companies, and activity providers are enhancing disinfectant protocols for your added safety. All vehicles undergo rigorous daily cleaning. We will also ensure hand sanitizing is available throughout each trip, on buses and in hotels. All hotels are vetted to ensure they meet or exceed government-mandated standards of cleanliness (thorough sanitizing) and service. All rooms are based on double or single occupancy and have en-suite bathrooms.

Most major attractions have reduced visitor numbers to allow for physical distancing. AESU’s advance planning team also attempts to arrange access to many sites when there is less crowding. Tour Directors will facilitate maintaining proper distancing and follow all local guidelines. We’ll do all we can to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.

When checking out the sights on guided tours in major cities, AESU provides wireless, listening equipment so local guides don’t have to crowd you together or shout over others. This will ensure a much better and safer sightseeing experience for everyone.

Currently, most countries do not require masks. Rules for wearing masks are continually changing and depend on the location and situation. (KN95 masks are preferred). Your Tour Director will advise whenever it is mandatory to do so, or you may consider wearing one for your own peace of mind and comfort, even when not mandatory. Most airlines no longer require masks during flights.

AESU staff is working behind-the-scenes 24/7 to ensure smooth operations. In the unlikely event any last-minute changes are made due to COVID-19 restrictions, your itinerary will be adjusted with equivalent inclusions or sites. Our team will make sure you still have a fantastic time even if a slight change has to be made. Your Tour Director will have all of the latest updates for you during your trip.

All hotels and venues must adhere to the local protocols currently in place. These are constantly changing, but more than likely, any buffets will not be self-service for some time. Most dining will be table service adhering to current regulations regarding social distancing and number of guests allowed at each table.

Return flights to the U.S: As of June 12, 2022, travelers will no longer need to provide a negative pre-entry COVID-19 test result to enter the United States.

Travel insurance is required for all AESU trips in the event of tour cancellation for any reason. (Some schools or alumni associations may offer travel insurance to you at a reduced rate.) If not, AESU also offers group travel insurance through Generali Travel Insurance. Ask our agents or copy this link into your browser: https://www.generalitravelinsurance.com/get-a-quote.html?partner=AESU3922

See AESU’s website for full terms and conditions including personal responsibility waivers concerning Coronavirus/COVID-19.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. AESU’s suppliers have taken enhanced hygiene protocols for your safety, as well as that of our other guests and team members. We ask that you also take personal responsibility for your well-being and have travel insurance to cover you for any unforeseen circumstances. This begins with packing any personal protective items such as masks and hand sanitizers. Adopt physical distancing and hygiene practices and follow all safety requests from staff while traveling with AESU. In choosing to travel with AESU, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.